Mark Wright and Michelle Keegan step out publicly arm-in-arm in Leeds for first time since August

They have been forced to defend their long-distance marriage, due to their working commitments taking them overseas. Reunited: Mark and Michelle haven't been pictured publicly together since August - athough, fans did see the pair appear on social media together in October Chic: Looking her usually glamorous self, Michelle stunned for the occasion as she slipped into a sultry pair of PVC flared trousers and heels Paying tribute to his brother on his birthday, Mark had taken to Instagram with photos from Josh's wedding day and a throwback snap of the pair from their childhood. Mark's sisters, Jess Wright, 33, and Natalya Wright, 18, made sure to turn heads as they made a glamorous arrival to dinner Stylish: Natalya showcased her model looks in a floral patterned mini dress and leather boot heels, Jess opted for a racy leopard print jacket, similar to Michelle's Glamorous: The girls made sure to bring their Essex glamour to Leeds as they sported flawless make-up looks Michelle has, however, hit back at rumours regarding their marriage and defended her romance with Mark - insisting the pair choose to keep their love away from the spotlight. Catching the eye: Jess paired her statement jacket with dark jeans and PVC leather boots Hand-in-hand: The sisters held hands as they exited the venue in Leeds Man of the moment: Birthday boy Josh cut a dapper figure in dark jeans and a burnt orange sweatshirt Cute: Paying tribute to his brother on his birthday, Mark had taken to Instagram with photos from Josh's wedding day and a throwback snap of the pair from their childhood Michelle added she's 'proud' that the pair lead different careers, insisting that her marriage is 'her business' and has 'given up commenting on it.' Family time: Mark shared a group shot of himself and Michelle with all his family in Leeds Family first: Josh Wright also shared a group shot of the family enjoying dinner at local eaterie Tattu Restaurant and Bar Unconventional: Mark was no doubt thrilled to be back in the company of his family - he and Michelle are regularly forced to spend extended periods away from each other and the UK as their work takes them overseas Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, he said: 'Don't listen to the rulebook, the rulebook will say "long distance can't work', there's no way this couple are going to work," it's bulls**t. 'At each other's feet every day doesn't work, it depends on the couple, if you love each other you make it work.